Malaysia’s fish supply remains secure despite global energy crisis, with ample reserves and subsidies ensuring stable production and distribution
IPOH: The country’s fish supply remains unaffected by the global energy crisis stemming from the West Asia conflict.
Department of Fisheries director-general Datuk Adnan Hussain said fishing vessel operations in zones A, B and C are continuing normally, supported by government fuel subsidies.
“Deep-sea C2 fishermen are feeling the pinch from higher fuel costs right now, but we expect them to carry on so the country’s fish supply stays secure,” he told reporters.
He added that current stockpiles would maintain fish production for three months if vessel operations were hampered.
Adnan said aquaculture could also step in to keep supplies steady if sea fishing faces disruptions.
He noted that while feed costs are set to rise due to logistics snags, farmers’ existing stocks will maintain stable output in the short term.
The DOF is also monitoring the weather, especially El Niño, which could impact river levels and aquaculture production in various states. Adnan was speaking after officiating an engagement programme on amendments to the Fisheries Act 2025.
He said the amendments, passed on Dec 31, will take full effect from June 1 to help the sector tackle modern challenges.
They comprehensively address illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, dwindling stocks, and climate impacts on food security.
The updated act will sharpen regulation of fishing operations, from landings and transhipments to vessel movements.
It also ramps up penalties, including compounds up to RM100,000 and fines to RM250,000 with jail for serious cases.
Penalties of up to RM1 million will apply for offences in marine parks and reserves.
Adnan said the amendments introduce new interpretations, sections, and improvements to make the fisheries legal framework more comprehensive and responsive.
